By 2021 Amazon says it will expand far beyond the four Amazon Go sites currently in operation.
Amazon threw yet another disruption curveball at brick-and-mortar retailers on Wednesday with news it aims to introduce 3,000 checkout-free Amazon Go locations by 2021, according to a report this week by Bloomberg.
The move would impact all retail channels from c-stores to quick-service restaurants.
On Monday, Amazon debuted its fourth Amazon Go location in Chicago—the first outside of the Seattle market. Customers scan the Amazon Go app when they walk in, then just select their groceries and walk out. Ceiling cameras capture all activity and customers are automatically charged for their selection.
According to the Bloomberg report, CEO Jeff Bezos is looking to reinvent the brick-and-mortar experience by eliminating gridlock during busy meal times in major cities. Amazon is testing various formats, such as that of a c-store with fresh prepared food and a limited grocery assortment vs more of a fast-food-only format.